Revisiting renovascular imaging for renal sympathetic denervation: current techniques and applications

Renal sympathetic denervation (RDN) is an emerging technique in the treatment of resistant hypertension, most commonly performed using an endovascular approach. Clinical and anatomical criteria for RDN are well established and imaging plays an integral role in selecting patients with suitable anatomy, procedural planning and device selection. Nevertheless, the current body of literature surrounding imaging related to RDN remains limited. The purpose of this article is to illustrate the expectations and limitations of various imaging techniques, including Doppler ultrasound, CT angiography, MR angiography and newer techniques such as non-contrast MR angiography, in the context of RDN.

• To understand the role of imaging in renal denervation • To understand strengths and weaknesses of current imaging techniques • To understand the relevant imaging findings in the context of renal denervation.